Founded in 1993, Safari West has evolved into a top-tier wildlife destination in the U.S., offering an immersive experience like no other. Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma County, this hidden gem brings the magic of the African safari to your backyard. Whether you're watching giraffes graze, flamingos wade, or any of our 900+ animals in action, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable experience that transports you to the heart of Africa—no passport required. Guests visiting Safari West are welcomed into a 400-acre wilderness just waiting to be explored. With around 900 animals from over 90 different species roaming some of the country's largest and most immersive habitats, every moment offers an unforgettable experience—whether observing a tower of giraffes or catching a glimpse of an elusive cheetah. It’s not just a visit; it’s a true wildlife adventure.
For over twenty-five years, Safari West has offered guests immersive, hands-on experiences that bring them face-to-face with the wonders of the wild. From the thrill of an African-style safari on the Sonoma Serengeti to glamping in luxury safari tents and exclusive behind-the-scenes encounters with our animal caretakers, there’s something for everyone. Whether exploring vast habitats, meeting incredible species up close, or enjoying a unique dining experience, each visit inspires curiosity, compassion, and a deeper connection to wildlife.
Safari West welcomes visitors every day as part of our ongoing commitment to conservation, environmental education, stewardship, and fostering a sense of personal responsibility. Our dedication shines through in the many projects and programs we support, all aimed at preserving wildlife and inspiring future generations. We invite you to be a part of this meaningful journey.
PROPERTY DETAILS
Address: 3115 Porter Creek Road Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Phone: (800) 616-2695 | (707) 579-2551
Media Contacts:
Aphrodite Caserta, Director of Marketing and Communications | Direct Line: 707-566-3620 | Cell: 707-575-5275 | acaserta@safariwest.com
Cheryl Crowley, Graphic Designer and Staff Artist | ccrowley@safariwest.com
Mark Pressler, Conservation Writer | mpressler@safariwest.com
Media Images: Dropbox Media Folder
Blog: On the Safari West blog we keep the public up to date on subjects ranging from events at the preserve to global conservation concerns. SafariWest.com/blog/
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Safari West is to actively promote conservation and environmental education while imparting knowledge that helps each individual make well-informed choices in regard to the environment and wildlife conservation.
At Safari West it’s all about the animals. Always has been, always will be.
WHAT CAN YOU DO AT SAFARI WEST?
Step inside the gates of our wildlife preserve and discover endless opportunities for adventure, connections, and experiences!
- Immerse Yourself in the Sonoma Serengeti: Experience the sights and sounds of the African wilderness right here in wine country!
- Glamping Under the Stars: Spend the night in a luxurious safari tent imported from South Africa, blending rustic charm with modern comfort.
- Embark on a Safari Experience: Explore the preserve on an authentic safari in a customized vehicle, getting up close with some of the world’s most fascinating animals.
- Winos & Rhinos: Savor a private wine tasting safari surrounded by rhinos and other magnificent creatures.
- Brews & Buffalo: Enjoy a unique beer-tasting experience as you take in the beauty of the Sonoma Serengeti.
- Private Royal Safaris: Indulge in exclusive options like the Twilight Serengeti, dinner at the Tree Top Aviary, or the Cheetahs and Chardonnay experience.
- Dine with a Wild View: Enjoy delicious meals and local wines at the Savannah Cafe, all while taking in views of giraffes, flamingos, and other incredible wildlife
- Behind-the-Scenes Experiences: This is our most popular Wild Experience, perfect for groups of up to 6 guests. During this hour-long tour, you’ll get up close and personal with some of our most unique furred and feathered residents. While experiences vary, you may have the chance to feed certain animals and learn firsthand what it takes to keep them happy and healthy. This wild walk could include visits to the giraffe barn, warthog pen, our walk-in bird aviary, and more! It’s an unforgettable way to gain a deeper understanding of our animals and the dedicated care they receive.
- Enrichment Tour Experience: Discover how we keep our animal residents engaged and thriving on our new Enrichment Tour Experience. This hands-on tour gives you the chance to see how we use puzzles, toys, and other creative activities to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors and keep them mentally and physically active. You’ll even have the opportunity to help prepare and deliver enrichment items, from hiding treats for the cheetahs to crafting toys for the primates. It’s an interactive and educational adventure that’s perfect for animal lovers of all ages, offering a unique glimpse into the world of animal care and welfare.
Discover our commitment to wildlife conservation and capture the beauty of our incredible animal and bird collections on a Private Photography Safari Workshop. This exclusive experience is designed to get you in the perfect position to create stunning images. With a private vehicle and a highly-trained safari guide and photographer, you’ll be free to customize your route, catching the light and the best angles. Whether you’re a solo photographer or part of a group, enjoy early morning or late afternoon sessions that take advantage of golden hour and optimal animal behavior. Capture unforgettable moments with the herds on the hill!
GETTING HERE
Located just 75 miles north of San Francisco, we’re nestled in the picturesque hills of Sonoma County.
Nearby Airports:
- San Francisco International (SFO): 1 hour 30-minute drive (79 miles)
- Oakland International (OAK): 1 hour 30-minute drive (80 miles)
- Charles M. Schultz Sonoma County Airport (STS): 18-minute drive (10 miles)
NEARBY TOWNS
- Hometown: Santa Rosa (7 miles)
- Neighboring Towns: Explore the nearby gems of Calistoga (10 miles), Healdsburg (17 miles), and Sonoma (27 miles). You’re also just a short drive from the beautiful Russian River area, the charming coastal town of Bodega, and renowned wine regions such as Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, and Chalk Hill. Discover Santa Rosa, the vibrant heart of Sonoma County, with its bustling downtown, historic Railroad Square, and the Charles M. Schulz Museum. Don’t miss the craft breweries in Windsor, the tasting rooms at Sebastopol’s The Barlow, and the award-winning wines of Dry Creek Valley and Green Valley.
THE FOUNDERS
Peter and Nancy met, fell in love, and joined forces to transform a 400-acre wildlife ranch into what is now the renowned Safari West Wildlife Preserve.
PETER ANTON LANG
Peter Lang’s visionary spirit and passion for wild places were ignited at an early age. Growing up on the back lots and sound stages of Hollywood, where his father, Otto Lang, produced iconic shows like Daktari and Sea Hunt, Peter had the unique opportunity to work closely with lions, chimpanzees, and other exotic animals. Inspired by these early experiences, Peter purchased land in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains north of Santa Rosa in the late ’80s. There, he transformed the property into a pioneering conservation breeding facility, relocating his growing collection of wild animals and laying the foundation for what would become Safari West.
NANCY ANNE LANG, Ph.D.
Driven by a lifelong passion for wild places and creatures, Dr. Nancy Lang pursued an impressive academic journey, earning both a B.A. and M.A. in biology from San Francisco State University, followed by a Ph.D. from the prestigious University of Wales in Cardiff. She spearheads all the conservation and educational programs at Safari West and is highly respected by her colleagues in the zoological community for her groundbreaking work and dedication to wildlife preservation.
CORE ACTIVITES
GO ON SAFARI!
Embark on an authentic safari adventure through the Sonoma Serengeti in one of our open-air vehicles. It’s not just the setting that makes this journey special, but the incredible wildlife you’ll encounter along the way—zebras, wildebeest, rhinos, and more, roaming freely in their expansive habitats. With no script and no predictable paths, every safari is a unique experience, guided by the natural rhythms of the animals themselves.
Led by an expert guide, you’ll hear fascinating stories and gain insights into the lives of these magnificent creatures. It’s a true safari experience that brings the wild heart of Africa to California’s wine country—perfect for any traveler looking for an unforgettable adventure!
GLAMPING: SPEND THE NIGHT
Glamping Among the Wildlife: A Safari West Experience: Imagine falling asleep to the vibrant sounds of the Sonoma Serengeti—screeching birds, the playful calls of leaping lemurs, and the unmistakable chatter of flamboyant flamingos. At Safari West, you can immerse yourself in this lively symphony without leaving Sonoma County. Our 30 luxury safari tents, imported from Botswana, offer the only glamping experience of its kind in Sonoma and Napa County. Nestled in the heart of a 400-acre wildlife preserve, each tent features heavy-duty canvas walls and mesh windows that bring the outdoors in, while plush bedding and en-suite bathrooms ensure all the comforts of home. It’s the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, transporting you to an African-inspired adventure—no passport required.
SAVANNAH CAFÉ: A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE ON THE SONOMA SERENGETI
A unique dining experience on the Sonoma Serengeti: The Savannah Café offers guests a dining experience as unforgettable as the wildlife preserve itself. Nestled in the heart of our 400-acre sanctuary, the café provides a rare opportunity to enjoy freshly grilled dishes surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Sonoma Serengeti. Inspired by the spirit of the legendary South African braai (pronounced “bry”), we add our own Sonoma County flair to this cherished tradition.
A braai is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that embodies the joy of gathering, sharing stories, and celebrating good food with great company. While similar to American barbecue, a braai is a cultural ritual that transforms any occasion into a festive gathering. Whether it’s a special event or simply a casual evening, our guests are invited to enjoy this unique blend of flavors and camaraderie in an unparalleled setting. It’s a true taste of adventure that’s sure to captivate and inspire your readers!
BONUS ROUNDS
For those looking to add a little more to the experience, we offer multiple private and special experiences that can be tailored to individual needs.
BEHIND THE SCENES
Take your adventure to the next level by peeking behind the curtain. On the Behind the Scenes tour, you’ll team up with one of our guides and discover how our animal caretakers keep this whole thing running. Meet and feed some of our most exciting and unique species including porcupines, warthogs, more birds than you can shake a stick at, and of course, our towering giraffes!
The Behind the Scenes tour is subject to adjustment depending on the mood and schedules of the individual species.
EXCLUSIVE SPECIALTY SAFARI ADVENTURES
A Private Safari makes your excursion even more intimate and personalized. Enjoy all the highlights of our African Safari Adventure with the unique freedom of having a guide dedicated solely to your group’s interests. By the way, this is an excellent way to guarantee a ‘Talk Nerdy to me Safari’. Depending on your occasion, needs and wishes, we offer several options for a fascinating experience so gather a group of your most adventurous friends and heed the call of the wild!
BITES AND BEVERAGE SAFARIS
Whether it’s the beer focused Brews and Buffalo or the vino-centered Winos and Rhinos, our food and beverage tours incorporate our classic safari experience with the carefully curated beer and wine tastings that have made our region famous.
RHINO ENCOUNTER
Meet up with our hard-working caretakers and experience a once-in-a-lifetime face-to-face meeting with some of the most astounding creatures on the planet!
SEASONAL ADVENTURES
Safari West isn’t just about the animals—it’s about unique experiences all year round! Whether it’s Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Mother’s Day, we love to get in the spirit with themed events that offer a fresh take on the Sonoma Serengeti.
One of our most popular events is the Valentine’s Day “Unleash Your Wild Side” Tour. While you might not catch animals in the act of courtship (unless you’re incredibly lucky), you’ll embark on an unforgettable adults-only safari that’s equal parts entertainment and education.
Join our expert guides aboard an open-air safari vehicle as they share the intriguing ‘Ins and Outs’ of animal courtship. From the rhythmic grunts of a warthog to the enchanting rituals of African mammals and birds, you’ll be captivated by the wild and whimsical tales of love in the animal kingdom. It’s a unique way to spend Valentine’s Day—guaranteed to be a conversation starter!
RATES AND SCHEDULES
Safari West is open both for day visits and overnight stays. Prices are seasonal and updated and posted regularly on our website.
Safari West Wildlife Foundation
OUR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
The Safari West Wildlife Preserve is proud to support and partner with the Safari West Wildlife Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation. The foundation makes it possible for Safari West and its animal inhabitants to be accessible to kids across the greater Bay Area. With a curated spectrum of programs, they educate and inspire curious minds of all ages!
SAFARI WEST LIVE
Focused largely on outreach to children’s hospitals and Title 1 schools, Safari West Live works by live-streaming a fully interactive safari, complete with dialogue between the safari guide, other educators, and participating guests. With this endeavor, the Foundation can not only replicate the experience of its in-person programming but do so for children anywhere in the world! We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity for an up-close and intimate experience with nature, regardless of who or where they are. Safari West Live makes it possible for us to deliver on that belief.
DISCOVER AFRICA
The Foundation is especially committed to providing an educational program that gives under-served students in the greater Bay Area the opportunity to experience first-hand encounters with nature and wildlife.
JUNIOR KEEPERS
From ages 12 to 16, the truly passionate can apply to become Junior Keepers. This immersive 10-month program introduces the real world work of wildlife management and conservation. By the end of the program, Junior Keepers are confident in their wildlife expertise and more importantly, know how to share that knowledge with others.
INTERNSHIPS
The partnership between the foundation and the wildlife preserve allows for some truly unique opportunities. The access to a curated collection of exotic species allows the foundation to offer research internships to several undergrads each year. Past study topics have ranged from wildebeest social behaviors to patas monkey mating rituals.
Every year, the world gets a little wilder for thousands of students, thanks to the generous donors of the Safari West Wildlife Foundation. Every dollar given makes a difference in the lives of young conservationists: making possible programs that introduce the latest in wildlife science and conservation education. To learn more please visit www.safariwestwildlifefoundation.org.
A COMPLETE LIST OF FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) IS POSTED ON OUR WEBSITE.
IS SAFARI WEST FAMILY FRIENDLY?
Of course Safari West is family friendly! While we don’t feature daily programming specifically dedicated to children, the entire Safari West experience was designed with families in mind. Our mission has always been to introduce children to wildlife in need and to foster intimate interactions between families and the fantastic creatures who inhabit this world.
Due to the length of the classic safari tour, we do require that children be at least four in order to board the truck (but if you’ve booked a private tour then children of all ages are welcome).
Some additional Safari West experiences that resonate with our younger guests include the nightly marshmallow roast around the barbecue pit, the many board games and playing cards available in the Elephant Room, and of course, camping out in our awesome safari tents!
IS SAFARI WEST ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY?
Safari West is in a constant state of greening up our practices and property. In the last several years we’ve transitioned to biodegradable soaps and cleaning products and removed disposable dinnerware from the Savannah Cafe. We’ve restricted the number of printable materials produced in our offices and ensured all printing is double-sided. Nearly all our correspondence is handled via email and the website, severely reducing our paper consumption.
Most recently we’ve updated the plumbing in the tent camp. Now rather than being wasted, all gray water from the tent showers and sinks is diverted for use in landscaping. We’ve also added additional recycling bins around property to help reduce how much we send to landfills.
A major part of our ongoing mission is the promotion of conservation and environmental education and guests are guaranteed to go home with something to think about. Our entire staff, from the guides and keepers, to the restaurant staff and housekeepers, has a daily focus on conservation.
OUR CONSERVATION MISSION
At Safari West, we’re not just interested in introducing people to animals. We want them to leave here with a passion for wildlife and wild places. In today’s world, these precious species and their unique ecosystems are under increasing threat. Poaching, deforestation, urban sprawl, and the ever-increasing human population all have an impact on our animal neighbors. We believe that it’s all of our responsibilities to make conscious decisions aimed at lessening our impact on our shared planet and helping conserve the animals and plants that call it home.
Our pursuit of this critical mission is multi-pronged and involves education, research, and conservation action and we work hard to educate every guest that comes through our gates. We know that conservation isn’t something that only takes place overseas and we make it a point to explore our native wildlife as well as our more exotic inhabitants. While visiting Safari West, guests are likely to see California native species like river otters, western pond turtles, red-tailed hawks, and more. We use these unexpected meetings to discuss the ways in which we can all make a difference in our own homes and neighborhoods. The unique environment of the Mayacamas mountains deserves conservation action as much as the Serengeti or the Amazon.
In addition to our on-site education efforts, each year, Safari West donates thousands of dollars to conservation organizations around the world. These organizations range from the Sahara Conservation Fund, working to reintroduce scimitar-horned oryx and addax antelope to the deserts of North Africa to the Marine Mammal Center working hard to conserve sea lions and seals right here on our own coastline. As a testament to the power of these partnerships, we welcome representatives from these groups to come to present their discoveries and knowledge as part of our ongoing speaker series. Free to Safari West guests, these after-dinner talks inspire and amaze on most weekends throughout the spring and summer.
WHAT INSPIRES THE FOUNDERS?
The Safari West Wildlife Preserve exists to inspire a meaningful commitment to wildlife, the environment, and conservation in our guests and the public at large. The preserve operates on the premise that the future wellbeing of the planet and its inhabitants relies on the passion and advocacy of humankind. We live in a time that calls for effective conservation of wildlife populations and their ecosystems. As a vital center for conservation, education, and academic research, Safari West is uniquely positioned to take a leadership role in inspiring and guiding young minds.
Safari West welcomes visitors every day in our ongoing pursuit of this mission. Our dedication to conservation, environmental education, stewardship, and individual responsibility shows in our many ongoing projects and programs. Safari West actively promotes conservation and environmental education concepts to our guests throughout their stay with us. Our goal is to impart knowledge that will help everyone make personal choices in regard to the environment and conservation efforts. We believe that if each person does their part, no matter how small it may seem, their efforts will help drive larger change. We hope that the resulting effect, particularly in regard to the children whose hearts and minds we touch, will multiply and create a conscious environmental movement now and into the future.
Many of these images, plus more, are available for download for editorial use from our Media Folder on Dropbox!